Making friends as an adult is notoriously hard – everyone’s busy, routines are set, and it can be hard enough making time for your existing ones. The good news? The Gold Coast’s ever-shifting population of travelling workers, uni students and interstate newcomers means our social scene is built exactly for this. Here’s where to start.
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to finally crack the spine on that book gathering dust on your shelf, this is it. Sydney-based book club Bookmarked by Frya has set her sights on the Gold Coast – and we’re not complaining. She’s hosting a cosy Book Club Dinner at Moustache in Mermaid on Thursday May 21 (6pm to 8pm), with pasta, dessert, a book swap, and a goodie bag included. Spots are limited, so grab your ticket.
Whether it’s the mental slog or the endorphin rush, there’s something about hitting the pavement together that really fast-tracks a friendship. The Gold Coast has a brilliant run club scene with groups to suit all paces – from casual joggers to those chasing a PB. You’ll finish every session with a sense of accomplishment, a clear head and a solid reason to grab a coffee with someone new.
Morning swims are so much more appealing when you’ve got a crew waiting for you at the water’s edge – especially as we head into winter. Sun and Sip Club combines the euphoria of an ocean dip with good company. It’s a wholesome, salt-in-your-hair ritual that turns strangers into friends fast. Consider it your new favourite way to begin the day (and the only valid reason to get out of bed when it’s dark).
Sound terrifying? That’s exactly why you should do it. Timeleft matches you with a table of strangers (hand-picked for compatibility) at a local restaurant. Since you only find out the venue 72 hours before, it’s spontaneous, surprisingly un-awkward, and has a track record of turning first-time diners into genuine friends. Trust the process! Read our chat with the Timeleft team here to find out more.
Good wine, great company, with Burleigh as your backdrop? Say less. The Urban Wine Walk is coming to the Gold Coast on Saturday May 16, guiding you through the best local venues, with glass in hand and plenty of opportunity to strike up a conversation. If you’ve been looking for friends who love a good time, chances are, you’ll find them here.
Life gets busy here on the Gold Coast, especially when you’re a business owner, and our social plans are usually first to go. Busy Girls Social Club gets it – it’s built for women who want connection, but need someone else to do the organising. Their regular low-key catch-ups mean you can show up, breathe out, and actually enjoy yourself – without the mental load of yet another ‘to do’ list.
The quickest way to find your people? Connect with the ones who love what you love. Actually Social Gals brings women together around shared interests with a monthly subscription model. Like a built-in social circle, this club is all about trying new places, trying new things and meeting new people, whether it’s a morning movement session or after-work drink.
